Finance Specialist (Business Office)

Position Purpose:

This position reports to the Business Office Manager and is responsible for maintaining accurate financial records for Education Service Center Region 15. The Financial Specialist will perform accounting work involving analysis and reporting of financial data and assist with the daily operations of the Business Office.

Major Responsibilities and Duties:

• Work with the Business Manager to maintain accurate accounting systems for the Education Service Center.
• Classify, record, and summarize numerical and financial data to compile and maintain financial records according to governmental accounting principles and applicable policies and procedures.
• Perform cost accounting activities, bank reconciliations and accounting for grant expenditures.
• Assist in monitoring daily cash flow.
• Assist with monitoring investments.
• Review expenditure and financial reports to prepare ESC reimbursement requests to granting agencies.
• Compile statistical and financial data for the purpose of providing reports, developing budget recommendations, providing financial summaries to ESC Directors, and/or ensuring compliance with established guidelines.
• Responsible for the monthly accounting of bookkeeping costs.
• Review, verify for accuracy and post Data Services, Network Services and Space Usage journal entries.
• Process adjusting entries, as needed.
• Assist in the collection, analysis, editing, verifying, and submission of PEIMS data for the ESC.
• Create and monitor required report submissions for completion, timeliness, and accuracy.
• Assist with coordination of the annual end-of-year financial/budgeting/audit processes.
• Assist with budget preparation and budget amendments.
• Maintain security rights for all ASCENDER software users within the ESC.
• Provide professional assistance to user personnel and model instruction to ensure understanding.
• Provide training and assistance to staff in the areas of purchasing procedures, requisition entry, matrix and quotes.
• Maintain and assist with Buy Board administration and commodity code updates.
• Effectively present Business Office related information and respond to questions, as needed.
• Incorporate appropriate technology in daily work and exhibit continual growth in technologies.
• Perform job duties efficiently, timely and independently with minimal supervision.
• Demonstrate cooperation, consideration and professional courtesy with staff, vendors, and clients.
• Other duties as assigned by the Executive Director or Business Manager.

Special Knowledge/Skills:

• Ability to analyze and interpret financial data, evaluate accounting problems, develop data, and recommend improved procedures
• Knowledge of governmental accounting principles and practices
• Possess integrity, judgement, responsiveness, and strong attention to detail
• Knowledge of governmental accounting, budgeting, payroll, human resources, and accounts receivable functions
• Exhibit prudent principles and practices of accounting knowledge
• Knowledge of computerized accounting software including budget, finance, and payroll systems
• Knowledge of information/data processing systems and related financial applications
• Ability to maintain accurate and auditable records
• Self-driven to read, interpret, and communicate information relating to technical procedures and / or governmental regulations
• Experience working with a network/database environment and the ability to develop and analyze complex spreadsheets, forms, and other documents
• Ability to read and interpret technical procedures and governmental regulations
• Effective organizational, communication and interpersonal skills

Education/Certification:

Bachelor of Business Administration with a major in Accounting or business-related field (preferred) and/or Advanced coursework in Accounting and related subjects (preferred)

Experience:

Three (3) years Business Office experience, preferably in a public education environment and/or Four (4) years of accounting experience